Lincoln athletics coach Rob Lewis, 83, retires after 40 years
Rob Lewis, an 83-year-old athletics coach, has retired after nearly 40 years of volunteering at the Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club. His career is being celebrated by high-profile athletes, including European marathon medalist Abbie Donnelly, who credits him for her success.
Why it matters
Highlights the vital role of grassroots volunteer coaching in the development of elite-level international athletes.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Scott Dalton , in Lincoln and Grace McGrory BBC / Scott Dalton Fresh from her European Championships success, marathon runner Abbie Donnelly returned to Lincoln for former coach Rob Lewis's send-off The first British woman to win an individual marathon medal at the European Championships has paid tribute to her "superhero" former coach on his retirement after almost 40 years.
Rob Lewis, 83, volunteered at Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club where he coached many athletes, including a young Abbie Donnelly who went on to clinch the European bronze medal in Birmingham on Sunday.
The club celebrated his final shift on Tuesday with Donnelly in attendance.
She said: "Rob's been an absolute superhero for me and the whole group to be honest. He's made my own running journey possible."
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